Faithful travel in hope of revival

FAITHFUL Fans will be travelling north up the M6 to Manchester tonight to support Coventry and Warwickshire BUPA Crusaders as they go in search of that all important win, that has eluded them for the past six games....

FAITHFUL Fans will be travelling north up the M6 to Manchester tonight to support Coventry and Warwickshire BUPA Crusaders as they go in search of that all important win, that has eluded them for the past six games.

Never before in the Crusaders History has there been such a run of losses.

Despite starting the season well by winning seven of their 10 National Trophy games before going out to Worthing at the quarter-final stage, Crusaders have failed to make any impression on the league.

They are currently lying in eighth position having won only one of their six league matches.

All at Crusaders know that they have to stop the rot if they are to make the play-offs at the end of the season. They remain as determined as always.

Training has gone well this week under the watchful eye of Marcus Garvey, assistant coach. The players have concentrated on both their offensive and defensive play and continue to fight against the injury and illness that have plagued them in disproportionate numbers.

The season results so far, do nothing to reflect the displays of exciting and attractive Crusader Basketball seen. Personal scores from Derrick Pope and Chris Harper have regularly been amongt the top scores for the league, with Drew Barrett not far behind them.

Last weekend gave Crusader fans the opportunity to see Dip Donaldson back in action and even though Donaldson admitted after the game to being only 50% match fit.

His appearance on court gave more depth to the side and a lift to the players.

Donaldson is, however, waiting again on player fitness reports as Chris Harper, Alvin Scott and Darren Weaver all appear to be carrying slight injuries, before naming his team to take on Manchester Magic at the GeorgeCarnall Sports Centre.

Manny Sharland and Ed Baynes-Clarke are both fit for the match which tips off at 7pm.